U.S. patent number 5,462,503 [Application Number 08/375,166] was granted by the patent office on 1995-10-31 for interactive exercise apparatus.
This patent grant is currently assigned to CyberGear, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael H. Benjamin, Aaron F. Bobick, Harvey A. Koselka, W. Thatcher Ulrich.
United States Patent |
5,462,503 |
Benjamin , et al. |
October 31, 1995 |
Interactive exercise apparatus
Abstract
An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and
body. The apparatus comprises a support structure for supporting a
user. An exercise mechanism and a steering mechanism are proximal
to the support structure. A simulated environment is generated by a
computer and displayed on a display system. The user manipulates
the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to freely
navigate through the simulated environment. The computer monitors
the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user
position in the simulated environment. The display is periodically
updated by the computer to provide a continuous visual display of
the user's position as the user travels through the simulated
environment.
Inventors: |
Benjamin; Michael H. (Quincy,
MA), Bobick; Aaron F. (Newton, MA), Koselka; Harvey
A. (Newton, MA), Ulrich; W. Thatcher (Boston, MA) |
Assignee: |
CyberGear, Inc. (Cambridge,
MA)
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Family
ID: |
21754342 |
Appl.
No.: |
08/375,166 |
Filed: |
January 18, 1995 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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12305 |
Feb 2, 1993 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/4; 482/54;
482/57; 482/72; 482/902; 434/61; 482/901 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F
13/285 (20140902); A63B 24/00 (20130101); A63B
26/003 (20130101); A63F 13/06 (20130101); A63F
13/12 (20130101); A63B 22/0087 (20130101); A63F
13/245 (20140902); A63B 22/16 (20130101); A63B
21/005 (20130101); A63B 23/0476 (20130101); A63B
71/0622 (20130101); A63B 2024/009 (20130101); A63B
2071/0625 (20130101); A63B 2071/0641 (20130101); A63B
2071/0644 (20130101); A63B 2220/76 (20130101); A63B
2230/01 (20130101); A63B 2230/06 (20130101); A63F
2300/1037 (20130101); A63F 2300/1062 (20130101); A63F
2300/50 (20130101); A63F 2300/8005 (20130101); A63F
2300/8017 (20130101); A63B 22/0605 (20130101); A63B
2022/0652 (20130101); Y10S 482/901 (20130101); Y10S
482/902 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A63F
13/06 (20060101); A63F 13/12 (20060101); A63F
13/02 (20060101); A63B 24/00 (20060101); A63B
21/005 (20060101); A63B 21/00 (20060101); A63B
23/04 (20060101); A63B 069/00 () |
Field of
Search: |
;482/1-9,51,54,57,61,68,72,900-902 ;434/61 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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0028209 |
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Jun 1981 |
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EP |
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0354785 |
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Feb 1990 |
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EP |
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9216659 U |
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Jul 1992 |
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DE |
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2194369 |
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Mar 1988 |
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GB |
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WO87/00066 |
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Jan 1987 |
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WO |
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Other References
Search Rpt., Feb. 2, 1994, PCT..
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Primary Examiner: Apley; Richard J.
Assistant Examiner: Richman; Glenn E.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault
Parent Case Text
This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 08/012,305 filed on
Feb. 2, 1993, now abandoned.
Claims
We claim:
1. An exercise apparatus comprising:
a support structure for supporting a user;
an exercise mechanism for providing exercise to the user supported
by the support structure;
a steering mechanism proximal to the support structure;
a processor for generating an interactive simulated environment and
monitoring user manipulation of the exercise mechanism and the
steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated
environment; and
a display system spaced from the user and providing a visual
display of the simulated environment and user position in the
simulated environment;
the processor being configured to enable the user to (i) travel
substantially unrestricted throughout the simulated environment by
manipulating the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism,
(ii) spontaneously modify user's course while traveling within the
simulated environment, and (iii) participate in user selectable
activities within the simulated environment.
2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a
mechanical linkage coupling the steering mechanism to a stationary
base such that (i) the steering mechanism is operably independent
of the exercise mechanism, and (ii) user manipulation of the
steering mechanism causes tilting of the support structure and
exercise mechanism about a longitudinal vertical plane extending
through the base.
3. The exercise apparatus of claim 2 wherein the mechanical linkage
allows for tilting in the forward, backward and lateral
directions.
4. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 further comprising one or more
springs coupling the support structure to a stationary base for
self-centering the steering mechanism.
5. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein the exercise mechanism
comprises a pair of cycling pedals.
6. The exercise apparatus of claim 5 wherein the means for exercise
mechanism further comprises a closed loop digital control system
which emulates a flywheel and freewheel to provide pedal resistance
and inertia for smooth motion.
7. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein the computer is
connectable to a computer of another exercise apparatus to allow
for group participation in the freely navigable simulated
environment.
8. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein the support structure
comprises a viewing screen.
9. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein the display system
comprises multiple viewing screens positioned to provide a wider
field of view of the simulated environment.
10. The exercise apparatus of claim 9 wherein each viewing screen
is a television monitor.
11. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a fan
controlled by the processor for simulating wind speed.
12. An exercise cycle comprising:
a support structure for supporting a user;
a means for providing user-initiated aerobic exercise to the user
supported by the support structure;
a steering mechanism proximal to the support structure;
a mechanical linkage coupling the steering mechanism to a
stationary base such that (i) the steering mechanism is operably
independent of the exercise mechanism, and (ii) user manipulation
of the steering mechanism causes tilting of the user supported by
the support structure about a longitudinal vertical plane extending
through the base;
a processor for generating an interactive simulated environment and
monitoring user manipulation of the exercise mechanism and the
steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated
environment; and
a display system spaced from the user and providing a visual
display of user position in the simulated environment;
the processor being configured to enable the user to (i) travel
substantially unrestricted throughout the simulated environment by
manipulating the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism,
(ii) spontaneously modify user's course while traveling within the
simulated environment, and (iii) participate in user selectable
activities within the simulated environment.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to exercise equipment,
specifically to exercise cycles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is known that physical fitness is of prime importance to many
people. Historically, people have been able to maintain an
acceptable level of fitness simply due to their everyday lives. As
lifestyles have become progressively more sedentary, people have
been forced to seek exercise in other ways.
A portion of society keeps in shape by participating in group
exercise events such as tennis, hockey or basketball games. Such
games are forms of "fun exercise" in that participants often take
part in such events because they simply enjoy the games or the
competition and not solely for the purpose of fitness. However, it
is often difficult to coordinate the people and facilities required
for many recreational and team sports. Individual sports such as
bicycling, running and swimming are a viable alternative in that
they allow for flexible schedules. The disadvantages to these
sports is that they are location and weather dependent.
A large segment of society finds it easier and more convenient to
go to health clubs or to use home exercise equipment to exercise.
Health clubs have extended hours and a wide range of fitness
equipment that allows workout schedules to be flexible and workouts
to be quick. Unfortunately, current exercise equipment makes
working out a chore that is tolerated due to the importance of
cardiovascular (aerobic) fitness.
Exercise equipment generally falls into two categories: strength
and aerobic. Strength equipment include traditional free weights as
well as machines on which the weight is not directly attached to
the lifting bars. The user lifts the weights in different ways to
strengthen various muscle groups. Aerobic machines improve the
users cardiovascular system and tone muscles rather than building
muscles and strength. Aerobic equipment includes exercise cycles,
treadmills and stair climbers. Typically, the required speed or
resistance can be varied during a workout. A control panel equipped
with a set of light emitting diodes (LED's) may be provided to
depict the routine as a histogram. An average workout lasts
approximately 20 minutes. Biomechanical feedback such as calories
burned may also be displayed on the control panel.
The most conventional ways to exercise often are not necessarily
the most fun. Thus, a need exists for fun exercise equipment which
makes workouts more enjoyable and entices more people to
exercise.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide exercise equipment
which makes aerobic exercise less boring and more fun. To
accomplish this, the present invention utilizes digital graphics,
interactive software, a mechanism for aerobic exercise, steering
controls and a display system to provide exercise equipment which
is competitive, engaging and fun. The graphics, interactive
software and display engage a user mentally while the exercise and
steering mechanisms control engage the user physically. As such, a
workout with the exercise equipment of the present invention can be
as exciting as participating in team sports but with health club or
home convenience.
In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an exercise
apparatus comprising a support structure for supporting a user. The
support structure can include a bicycle seat or a bucket seat such
that the apparatus resembles an exercise cycle. An exercise
mechanism, such as a pair of cycling pedals, can be initiated by
the user for providing aerobic exercise. A steering mechanism, such
as a pair of handles, is disposed proximal to the support
structure. The exercise apparatus further comprises a processor
which generates an interactive simulated environment and a display
system spaced from the user providing a visual display of the
simulated environment.
During a workout, the user manipulates the exercise mechanism and
the steering mechanism to freely navigate through the simulated
environment. The processor monitors the exercise mechanism and the
steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated
environment. The display is updated by the processor to provide a
continuous visual display of the user's position as the user
navigates substantially unrestricted through the simulated
environment.
The processor is capable of running many different programs to
provide a variety of simulated environments. Some programs provide
roads, terrain, obstacles for the user and competition. Other
programs may provide new worlds for the user to explore or even
allow the user to travel across the solar system. Each program
provides a simulated environment which can be multi-dimensional to
appear more realistic. The user views the simulated environment or
world through the display system. The user freely navigates through
the environment using the exercise mechanism and the steering
mechanism. In other words, user travel in the simulated environment
is substantially unrestricted. Thus, the user can travel across
roads and trails or chose to travel across grass, water or other
more challenging terrain.
A user operating the exercise apparatus of the present invention
manipulates the exercise mechanism and steering mechanism. The
exercise mechanism may comprise a pair of interconnected cycling
pedals. Further, instead of employing a traditional flywheel and
freewheel to provide for pedal resistance, a closed loop digital
control system may be used to electronically control pedaling
revolutions. The control system includes a digital controller which
controls a pedal resistance device electronically, thereby
emulating a flywheel/freewheel to provide the proper combination of
pedal resistance and inertia for smooth pedaling revolutions.
The steering mechanism may be coupled to a stationary base by a
mechanical linkage. As the user manipulates the steering mechanism,
the mechanical linkage causes tilting of the user relative to the
base. This feature simulates the turning action of a bicycle or the
like, serving to further engage the user in the exercising
experience. In fact, the frame can tilt up to 15 degrees or more to
either side of a longitudinal vertical plane.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the
invention will become apparent from the following more particular
description of preferred embodiments of the invention, as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference
characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views.
The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being
placed on illustrating the principles of the present invention.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interactive exercise apparatus
illustrating the principles of the present invention.
FIG. 2A is a side view of an interactive exercise cycle of the
present invention.
FIG. 2B is a top view of an alternative interactive exercise cycle
which includes a plurality of visual display units.
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating one process for determining a
user's position as the user freely navigates through a simulated
environment.
FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the interactive exercise
cycle of FIG. 2A illustrating a frame movably mounted on a
stationary base.
FIG. 5 is an exploded partially cut-away view of FIG. 4
illustrating a mechanical linkage connecting the steering mechanism
to the base.
FIG. 6 is a cross-section view of a pedal resistance device used in
the interactive exercise cycle of FIG. 2A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is generally directed to interactive exercise
equipment which engages a user's mind and body. Referring to FIG.
1, an exercise device 10 comprises a support structure 12 for
supporting a user. The support structure 12 may include a bicycle
seat or bucket seat. An exercise mechanism 14 for providing aerobic
exercise to a user, such as cycling pedals, is proximal to the
support structure 12. A steering mechanism 16, such as handles or
handlebars, is also positioned near the support structure 12.
An interactive simulated environment is generated by a processor
18, such as a computer, and displayed on a display system 20. The
display system comprises a viewing screen or multiple viewing
screens to provide a wider field of view. The user manipulates the
exercise mechanism 14 and/or the steering mechanism 16 to freely
navigate through the environment displayed on the display. To
accomplish this, the processor 18 monitors the exercise mechanism
14 and the steering mechanism 16 to determine user position in the
simulated environment. The processor 18 controls the level of
difficulty of the exercise mechanism 14 to simulate characteristics
(i.e. topography, terrain, etc.) of the environment. The display 20
is periodically updated by the computer 18 to provide a continuous
visual display of the user's position as the user travels
substantially unrestricted in the simulated environment.
In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an exercise
cycling apparatus as shown in FIG. 2A. The apparatus 22 includes a
frame 24 movably mounted to a stationary base 26. A bucket seat 25
is mounted to the frame 24. The seat 25 enables a user to be seated
in the recumbent position which provides several biomechanical and
aerobic advantages. Recumbent cycling engages the gluteus maximus,
the largest muscle group, to provide for maximum aerobic activity
before reaching the anaerobic threshold. The bucket seat 25 makes
the recumbent position very comfortable for long rides. In
addition, the recumbent position is less intimidating to overweight
users. It is noted, however, that the present invention can employ
the more common upright exercise bicycle frame and seat without
departing from the scope of the invention.
A pair of cycling pedals 27 extend from a pedal resistance device
28. The pedal resistance device 28 is adjustable so that the pedals
27 can always be within reach of a short or long-legged user. A
user exercises by manipulating the pedals 27. Two vertically
oriented handles 30 are coupled by a mechanical linkage 72 (see
FIG. 5) to the frame 24 for steering the cycle 22. The handles 30
are positioned so that one handle is located on each side the seat
25. As the user manipulates the handles 24, the mechanical linkage
cause tilting of the frame 24 relative to the base 26. This feature
simulates the turning action of a bicycle and is explained in
detail below.
A computer 32 capable of generating an interactive simulated
environment is mounted to an L-shaped leg 36 which extends from the
stationary base 26. The computer 32 can be powered by many
different types of microprocessor based computers. One embodiment
of the invention includes a personal computer based on the Intel
486 processor. Other computers, such as those based on the Motorola
68040 processor can be used.
A viewing screen, such as a television monitor 35, is positioned
opposite the seat 25 and oriented to be viewed by a seated user.
The monitor 35 may be capable of showing computer generated
graphics as well as standard TV and VCR images. The monitor 35 is
connected to the computer 32 to provide a visual (and optional
audio) display of the simulated environment. While the monitor 35
can be any size, a larger monitor is preferred. A variable speed
fan 38 is mounted adjacent to the monitor 35. The computer 32
regulates the speed of the fan 38 to provide an air flow which
simulates wind speed.
Referring to FIG. 2B, a central viewing monitor 44 and two side
monitors 46 can be employed. The two side monitors 46 provide
peripheral vision which enhances the user's sense of motion. The
side monitors may also be employed for biomechanical data and/or
status displays.
Referring back to FIG. 2A, a user operates the apparatus 22 by
pedaling the cycling pedals 27 and steering with the handles 30 to
freely navigate through the simulated environment. The computer 32
can vary the pedal resistance felt by the user by controlling the
pedal resistance device 28. The computer 32 monitors pedal speed
and steering direction to determine the user's position in the
simulated environment. Based on the user's action, the computer 32
provides the monitor 35 with updated views of the simulated
environment which corresponds to the user's position. The monitor
35 provides the user with an ongoing visual display of the
simulated environment based on the user's position therein as the
user freely navigates in the environment.
The computer 32 is capable of running many different interactive
programs to provide a variety of environments. Some programs
provide roads, terrain and obstacles for the user. Other programs
include underwater adventure, pedal powered flight simulators, and
space travel. Each program provides a simulated environment which
the user views through the television monitor 35. The user freely
navigates in the environment using the pedals 27 and the steering
handles 30. In other words, user travel in the simulated
environment is substantially unrestricted. Thus, the user can
travel across roads and trails or chose to travel across grass,
water as well as other more challenging terrain.
Many existing exercise machines and video games have a start-up
sequence which requires a user to enter certain facts, such as
weight, skill level, desired course and length of workout. The
information is usually gathered through a set of buttons with LED
indicators. However, this type of interrogation can be confusing
and time-consuming. Accordingly, the cycling apparatus 22 may
gather some of this type of information indirectly. For example, a
sensing device (69 in FIG. 5) can be incorporated into the seat 25
for automatically weighing a user. Other information may be
gathered by means of the user navigating the cycle down the path of
choice. For example, a person who desires a tough workout could
head for a hilly path. Other choices may be indicated by road signs
or other markers. By using this navigational metaphor, the user is
able to make choices in a natural and intuitive manner. If the user
misses a choice he or she can simply turn around.
The computer 32 may be adapted to participate in a communication
network connecting several exercise devices. As such, multiple
users can exercise in the same simulated environment. This feature
stimulates impromptu races and competition among users. By allowing
users to navigate freely around the same environment, they can
engage in friendly touring or fierce competition on a spur of the
moment basis.
A general process flow sequence of the interactive software within
the computer 32 is shown in FIG. 3. Once a particular environment
has been selected, the computer monitors a variety of parameters
including user weight, pedal speed 50 and steering/tilt 52 (step
54). The computer uses these parameters to update the user's
position and direction in the environment (step 56). Subsequently,
the computer generates a visual (and optionally audio) image of the
environment based on the updated position of the user (step 62).
The monitor 35 displays updated images at least 7 times/second. The
computer 32 updates pedal resistance to simulate such elements as
hills, gear changes, road surfaces, simulated headwinds and
drafting of opponents (step 60). The fan speed can be modulated to
correspond to the simulated windspeed and speed of travel. Finally,
the computer 32 may also generate sounds and background music.
A detailed illustration of the seating portion of the exercise
apparatus 22 is provided in FIG. 4. The seat 25 upon which the user
sits is mounted onto the frame 24. The frame 24 is movably mounted
to the base 26 by hinges 64. Although only one hinge 64 is shown,
it is noted that one or more hinges are used. Push button controls
can be provided on the handles 30 for shifting gears and other
interactive functions.
Referring to FIG. 5, a mechanical linkage 72 allows the frame 24 to
tilt relative to the base (up to 15 degrees or more to either side
of the longitudinal vertical plane) in response to manipulation of
the handles 30 for simulating the turning action of a bicycle. The
handles 30 are connected to the mechanical linkage 72 by a beam 68.
The mechanical linkage 72 includes a horizontal beam 70 positioned
between a pair of vertical posts 71. The posts 71 extend from the
stationary base 26. The mechanical linkage also includes bearings
73 mounted in the frame 24 and holding a pivoting vertical post
74.
As the user manipulates the handles 30 back and forth (as indicated
by the arrows) to steer in the simulated environment, the beam 68
turns causing the vertical and horizontal posts (74, 70) to move in
the same direction laterally. The horizontal post 70 contacts the
vertical post 71 which pushes the frame 24 in the opposite
direction. This causes frame 24 to tilt about the hinge 64 causing
the seat 25 and the pedals 27 to tilt accordingly.
A pair of springs 75 are positioned on opposite sides of the seat
25. The springs 75 are disposed between the frame 24 and the base
26 for centering the frame 24 once the user lets up on the handles
30 or gets off the seat 25. As such, the springs 75 serve as a
self-centering mechanism to ensure that the seat 25 is vertically
aligned for easy mounting and dismounting.
A sensing device 69 located under the seat 25 measures the users
weight and adjusts the stiffness of the self-centering springs 75.
The springs 75 are adjusted to stiffer settings for heavier persons
and less stiff settings for lighter persons. As such, each user can
experience the full range of tilting motion.
Additional sensors may be employed in and around the seat 25 to
noninvasively monitor the user's heart rate, pedal speed and power
output. For example, the sensing device 69 provides an estimate of
the users body weight. These inputs are used by the computer
software to determine the caloric output of the user.
It is noted that the apparatus of the present invention can employ
a traditional freewheel and flywheel to provide pedaling
resistance. However, a closed loop digital control system may be
employed instead. As such, pedaling resistance would be provided by
a simpler drive mechanism controlled electronically by a digital
control system to provide for smooth pedaling strokes.
Referring to FIG. 6, the cycling pedals 27 are connected to the
pedal resistance device 28. The device 28 is adjustable to
accommodate users having short and long legs. The pedals 27 turn an
axle 77. The axle 77 is coupled to a braking device 79 by a
plurality of belts 76 and pulleys 78. The braking device 79 can
include any of the following mechanisms: a magnetic particle brake,
hysteresis brake, mechanical straps and pads, electrical
generators, torque motors or magnetic inductance. In one
embodiment, a hysteresis brake is used (such as Model HB produced
by Magtrol, Inc. Buffalo, N.Y.) providing a smaller, simpler means
of providing the resistance to the pedals.
The digital control system 82 is connected to the brake 79 by wires
80. Responsive to the interactive software in the computer 32, the
control system 82 controls the pedal resistance of the braking
device 79 electronically, thereby emulating the traditional
flywheel/freewheel arrangement to provide the proper combination of
pedal resistance and inertia for smooth pedaling revolutions. For
example, an extremely light resistance is provided to simulate
downhill travel and higher resistance is provided to simulate gear
changes, wind resistance and hills. The pedals can be driven
backwards to reverse direction.
Equivalents
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with
reference to specific preferred embodiments, it should be
understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form
and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *